GROUND BEEF (OR TURKEY) & VEGETABLE SOUP

(serves 4 to 6)

1 lb. ground lean beef or ground turkey

2 carrots cut in tiny pieces

1/2 onion, peeled and cut in tiny pieces

3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut in small pieces

1 cup of tiny green peas

1 cup of whole kernel corn

1 can diced tomatoes

1/3 cup barley or small pasta

1 1/2 cups water

salt and pepper to taste

2 t. sugar

1/2 t. dried thyme

     Prepare all vegetables before beginning to cook.  Measure out all ingredients.

     In a large soup pot, brown ground beef (or turkey) with onions stirring constantly with a fork to make the meat brown evenly and remain in separate pieces.  When meat is brown, add carrots, potatoes, peas, corn, salt, pepper, sugar, and thyme.  Next, stir in the tomatoes and water.  Bring the pot to a boil.  Reduce the heat, cover the pot and cook for about 30 to 40 minutes.  Taste and adjust the seasoning.